Worcester officer on leave after being accused of attacking wife

Friday

May 24, 2013 at 8:00 AMMay 24, 2013 at 1:40 PM

By Linda Bock, TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF

WORCESTER — A 26-year veteran officer of the Worcester Police Department was arraigned in Central District Court today and accused of threatening to kill his wife, choking her twice, and threatening to burn down their house early this morning.

Kenneth D. Erickson, 48, of 12 Maravista Road, was charged with domestic assault and battery and threatening to commit a crime — murder.

Mr. Erickson has been placed on administrative leave by the police administration.

Assistant District Attorney Roberta O'Brien said in court today at Mr. Erickson's brief arraignment that he kicked in the bedroom door, ripped the victim's shirt, choked her, and said he was going to kill her. Ms. OBrien said Mr. Erickson turned on the stove and threatened to burn the house down.

Police were first called to the Maravista Road home for a report of domestic violence on Thursday. When they arrived, officers found a woman sitting in her car in front of the house. She told officers that she'd had an argument with her husband, but the matter was resolved.

Officers went inside and spoke with Mr. Erickson, according to police. He also told them that the argument had been resolved.

"Both parties were interviewed separately and denied that the argument was physical," according to police reports. "At that time, Mr. Erickson decided to leave the home for the night and made arrangements to stay elsewhere."

Officers told the woman of her rights pertaining to domestic abuse laws, including restraining orders, and she told police that it was not necessary.

However, police were summoned back to the house about 3 this morning by reports of a domestic dispute.

According to police, Mr. Erickson's wife was hesitant to provide officers with the details of the circumstances involving her husband. She told officers that she had picked up Mr. Erickson and brought him back to the home. Once they were home, she told them, another argument ensued that turned physical and threats were made against her.

A police supervisor arrested Mr. Erickson, and officers confiscated Mr. Erickson's police-issued weapon, as well as his personal firearms. The weapons were taken to police headquarters.

A pleas of not guilty was entered on Mr. Erickson's behalf. He had no prior record, and was released on personal recognizance. He was ordered to refrain from abusing the victim. He is scheduled to be back in court on July 12.